The Lekki Textile and Garment Special Economic Zone (SEZ), located in the Eyin-Osa area of Epe, Lagos State, is set to reshape Nigeria’s economic future. This ambitious initiative is expected to spark significant local and national economic growth, generate thousands of jobs, and foster crucial infrastructure development.
Dr. Olufemi Ogunyemi, Managing Director of the Nigeria Export Processing Zones Authority (NEPZA), announced on Friday that the SEZ, when fully operational, will directly create 5,000 jobs. Additionally, over 20,000 indirect job opportunities will be generated, benefiting local communities and boosting the broader economy.
A major milestone was achieved when NEPZA compensated seven families from the Eyin-Osa community, who contributed a total of 240.09 acres of land for the SEZ project. This compensation is part of the government’s ongoing efforts to ensure that local residents benefit from the development.
Dr. Ogunyemi highlighted the project’s wide-ranging benefits, including local employment creation, the establishment of backward linkages, and the improvement of surrounding infrastructure. He noted that the SEZ supports the Federal Government’s Economic Recovery and Growth Plan (ERGP), which seeks to attract foreign direct investment and promote industrial growth. This aligns with the current administration’s focus on economic diversification and development.
The project has received strong backing from local leaders, such as Alhaji Muftau Shittu, President of the Eyin-Osa United Kingdom Development Association (EUKDA). Shittu acknowledged the community’s deep ties to the land and the challenges they have faced with land encroachment over the years. However, he expressed optimism that the resolution of land acquisition issues and the establishment of the SEZ would lead to lasting prosperity for the community.
With land acquisition completed and compensation distributed, the Lekki Textile and Garment SEZ is now positioned for further development. The project is seen as a pivotal step in Nigeria’s efforts to diversify its economy, stimulate industrialization, and create sustainable job opportunities for its citizens.
